Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 7, 2025

A Soluble Tetrazolium-Based Reduction Assay to Evaluate the Effect of Antibodies on Candida tropicalis Biofilms
Published on: September 16, 2022
Oregano essential oil inhibits Candida spp. biofilms
Mayram Hacioglu1, Ozlem Oyardi1, Alpcan Kirinti1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, Beyazit, Istanbul, 34116, Turkey.
Abstract:
Candida spp. can form biofilms on mucosal surfaces and epithelial cells as well as on devices implanted in the body such as catheters and dentures, which are thought to underlie the most recalcitrant infections. It was aimed to show antifungal and antibiofilm activities of oregano oil (Origanum onites). The antifungal activities of some essential oils were investigated against C. spp. and among them, oregano oil was found to be the most effective oil and further biofilm studies were conducted with it. Oregano oil inhibited biofilm adhesion and formation of C. spp. and mature biofilms and also displayed the ability to reduce biofilm formation when they were allowed to form on surfaces previously coated with oil (up to 50% inhibition rates). In addition, oregano oil was found to be effective against dual biofilms of Candida albicans + Staphyloccocus aureus at different concentrations. This study suggests that O. onites essential oil has useful antibiofilm effects against C. spp. The inhibitory effects of O. onites essential oil, against C. spp., were demonstrated for the first time. It also had antifungal effect on biofilm formation and established biofilm even at MIC level.
Insights
Oregano oil exhibits significant antifungal and antibiofilm properties against Candida species. This natural compound effectively inhibits biofilm formation and disrupts existing biofilms, offering a promising therapeutic agent.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Biofilms formed by Candida species are a major cause of persistent infections, often associated with medical devices.
- Developing effective strategies against these biofilms is crucial for treating recalcitrant Candida infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antifungal and antibiofilm activities of oregano oil (Origanum onites) against Candida species.
- To evaluate the efficacy of oregano oil in preventing and eradicating Candida biofilms.
Main Methods:
- Screening of essential oils for antifungal activity against Candida spp.
- Detailed investigation of oregano oil's effects on Candida biofilm adhesion, formation, and mature biofilms.
- Testing oregano oil against dual-species biofilms of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus.
Main Results:
- Oregano oil demonstrated the most potent antifungal activity among tested essential oils.
- Oregano oil significantly inhibited Candida spp. biofilm adhesion and formation, with up to 50% reduction on pre-coated surfaces.
- Effective antibiofilm activity was observed against dual-species biofilms of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus.
Conclusions:
- Origanum onites essential oil possesses significant antibiofilm effects against Candida species.
- The study provides the first evidence of Origanum onites essential oil's inhibitory effects on Candida spp. biofilms.
- Oregano oil shows promise as a natural agent for combating Candida-related biofilm infections.
Related Concept Videos
Biofilms
Surface Membrane Barriers
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
Antimicrobial Effectiveness
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Chemical Agents for Microbial Control

